Reconfigurable Liquid Flow Control for Multi-Mode Beverage Preparation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid dispensing systems are limited to fixed flow modes, restricting their ability to prepare a variety of beverages as they cannot be configured to accommodate different liquid flow scenarios, such as flow-through and parallel modes, which are necessary for diverse beverage preparation processes.

Innovation Solution

A liquid flow control system that is configurable between flow-through and parallel modes, allowing for the integration of enhancement components to mix with the liquid flow, enabling the preparation of various beverages by positioning the system between the inlet and outlet of the liquid flow path, and allowing for the use of capsules, pods, or pouches that can attach to the dispensing apparatus to modify the flow configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed liquid flow path configuration is used, then the device structure is simple, but the beverage preparation versatility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeverage preparation versatilityVSAvoidliquid flow path configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The liquid flow control system is designed to be reconfigurable between flow-through mode and parallel mode, allowing the liquid flow path to dynamically change its configuration based on the desired beverage preparation process, thus resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The flow control system is divided into separate controllable segments that can be independently configured to achieve different flow modes, enabling versatility while maintaining manageable structural complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single flow mode is supported, then the device complexity is low, but the beverage preparation capability is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeverage preparation capabilityVSAvoidflow mode configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The liquid flow control system is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting both flow-through mode and parallel mode within a single integrated system, allowing one device to prepare various types of beverages including infused, concentrated, and blended drinks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The flow control system acts as an intermediary component between the liquid source and the beverage preparation process, mediating the liquid flow to accommodate different preparation methods through its reconfigurable nature

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9693650B2Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems

Publication Date: 2017.07.04 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.